The most common version of rugby is played with 15 players on either team. This game is known by a few names, including: Rugby union, Fifteens rugby, XV’s rugby, or often, simply “rugby”.

It is this version of the game that is played by national teams at the Rugby World Cup.

The key features of fifteens rugby are the number of players on each team (15), the ways in which teams are able to attempt to earn possession or “contest” for the ball, and the rules that apply to physical contact.

Sevens is a form of rugby that earns its name from both the number of players on the field (7) and the length of each half (7 minutes). This game is designed for speedsters, and is played on a full size rugby field. If you want to test your sprinting abilities against some of the fittest athletes around, rugby sevens could be perfect sport for you.

It is this version of the game that is played at the Olympics, Pan-Am Games and the World Rugby Sevens Circuit.

If you love the idea of playing rugby but cringe at the idea of taking a tackle, you won’t lose anyone’s respect around here. Variations include one-hand touch, two-hand touch or flag rugby. These versions of rugby offer wonderful opportunities to play, keep fit and make new friends. Many clubs offer such programs in the summer months.

Rookie Rugby teaches the basics of passing, catching, running with the ball and kicking. Tackling is not permitted. Instead, players have flags on either hip that the opposition must remove in order to stop the ball carrier. Rookie Rugby is played in schools, parks, recreation centres and community centres across BC. The rules are simple, the game is easy to learn, and minimal equipment is required. Learn more at http://rookierugby.ca/en/